Meet Jamey Rowe

adult achievers spotlight

Zach Elliott – Writer

In his art and music, LeAnna Rowe’s son, 18-year-old James “Jamey” Rowe, has grown into an outstanding young artist, with the best yet to come.

A life-long Indiana resident, Jamey was diagnosed with autism at 2 years of age and quickly lost all his communication skills. Soon after, he began learning American Sign Language and started using early intervention services. Slowly but surely, Jamey was able to regain his verbal communication.

Growing up, Jamey realized he had a talent and passion for music while in music therapy. He began taking piano lessons at Miss Shannon’s Music Studio, eventually expanding his musical repertoire to include violin, viola, harp, and percussion.

Jamey’s musical career was not limited to lessons. He began using his budding skills to accumulate impressive accomplishments. Across multiple Indiana youth orchestras, Jamey has held first-chair positions, has completed college-credit summer courses at the Berklee College of Music, has won national and international music competitions, and acted as a volunteer coordinator for the Franklin County Volunteer Musicians for the Arts. He was also featured as a guest musician with Northern Kentucky University’s orchestra.

A fan of bluegrass, classical, and especially jazz music, one of Jamey’s inspirations is the jazz pianist and composer Matt Savage, who also has autism. Savage is a motivation because he has succeeded in the music world despite communication and social barriers. In another huge moment, Jamey was able to open for Savage at a show in Indianapolis.

Currently in 11th grade at the Indiana Agriculture and Technology School, Jamey is also a member of the Southeast Indiana Youth Orchestra, Symphonic Youth Orchestra of Greater Indianapolis, Special Olympics-Franklin County, and participates in Sam’s Jams Farm. He was recently named state winner for fruit production at the Indiana FFA convention.

Once he is out of school, Jamey hopes to become an artist, composer, and musician, continuing to build on his burgeoning talents. He would love to perform as a member of an orchestra or chamber group.

Music and art changed Jamey’s life by helping with his autism, and he hopes to pay it forward. By bringing his music to those with disabilities, he hopes he can change lives in the same way music has changed his.